Green Light For New Ebola Treatments In DR Congo

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have approved the use of four experimental Ebola treatments in two provinces, where 75 people have tested positive for the illness and 32 people have died.

Ten patients have already received doses of a previously approved treatment - which consists of antibodies from a survivor - and patients are reportedly showing signs of progress.

The ongoing vaccination campaign in DR Congo's north-eastern North Kivu and Ituri provinces faces significant challenges.

This is the 10th outbreak in the country but the first in a conflict zone.

The World Health Organization has called for a cessation of hostilities to allow access to some of the affected areas to administer treatments.

Children have been particularly affected by this outbreak - at least six of the confirmed cases concern people younger than 14.

Neighboring Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania are on high alert as there is significant border trade and cross-border movement into this densely populated part of DR Congo.